1 John 4:21

It's easy to say we love God. We can sing the songs, say the prayers, and show up on Sunday. But John makes it clear that our love for God is proven in how we treat the people around us—especially the ones who are hard to love.

Think about your own life for a moment. Is there a family member you've been avoiding? A friend you're still holding something against? A coworker who pushes every button you have? Those are the exact places where this command shows up.

Loving people doesn't have to be dramatic. Sometimes it's a simple apology, a phone call you've been putting off, or just listening without jumping in with your own opinion. Small acts of kindness are often the clearest evidence that God's love is really living in us.

So here's a practical step: pick one person today. Maybe send the text, make the call, or let go of that grudge you've been carrying. When you love the people in front of you, you're loving God in the most tangible way there is.

Dear Lord, thank You for loving me first, even when I didn't deserve it. Show me the person You want me to love today, and give me the courage to love them with real action, not just words. Amen.